Paper 1 requires considered and focused responses. It is recommended that students spend a short period of time planning before they start writing to make a rough draft or a diagram of what they want to communicate within their response to ensure they stay focused on the question. It should also help to ensure their is balance in their analyses.
How to prepare a Paper 1 Style Assessment
Study all content covered in the books, wikis, learning activities, and especially-key terms.
Read details about Paper 1 in ITGS Guide pages 46-52 (see parts relevant to Paper 1).
Tips for Paper 1 Style Assessments
Read each scenario and be sure to answer the question while using command terms.
Use a formal style of writing with good spelling and grammar. Bullet points do not have depth and paragraph/sentence style is better. Avoid symbols and words such as:Look for the ITGS Triangle in the scenario. Underline Command Terms and bold Key Terms.
--> (used in math meaning if...then), do not use in writing
etc. (worth no marks)
& (write out 'and')
Avoid SMS-speak ('u' instead of 'you' and other instances)
misspelling words that appear in the question or misspelling ITGS words
phrases such as 'it is obvious' contributes nothing to the argument
Organize responses before writing. Include ITGS key terms and provide specific examples with description and explanations as required by the Command Term.
Paper 2
The following notes can be used as a template for planning and writing the responses at a high level.
Criteria A and B should be treated as one item as the questions are designed to explore who, what, where, when, how and why about the use of the IT system, the components of the IT system and its relationship to the concern raised in the article.
Criterion A: The issue and stakeholder(s) [4 marks possible] DESCRIBEone social / ethical concern related to the IT system. [2 marks] Chose a CONCERN, not a positive issue. What is the concern about? Why it is a concern?
There may be several concerns, choose the strongest.
Are there lots of impacts for this concern? What is the negative impact on one or more stakeholders?
Is there a potential solution to these impacts? Has the context of the article been included?
Use ITGS key terminology.
Words to use: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
DESCRIBE the relationship of one primary stakeholder to the IT system. [2 marks] Who is the primary stakeholder? Give details of the concern or relationship. What is their use of the IT system? Which part of the IT system are they using? Has the context of the article been included? Use ITGS key terminology. Words to use: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example. Criterion B: The IT concepts and processes [6 marks possible] DESCRIBE, step by step, how the IT system works. [2 marks] Write in bullet points. Don't miss any steps. Go beyond the information presented in the article (input, output, processing, hardware, software, connection). Be detailed. Use correct ITGS terminology throughout your response.
Additional questions to consider: What is the input to the system? What is the output from the system? What processing of data/information is happening? What storage devices are used? What security/data validation is used/needed? What networks are used? What communication systems are used? What input and output devices are used? Where does the data/information come from and flow to? Where and when does all this happen? Who is involved with each of the above? Use the information above to describe the steps required to use the IT system: What does the user need to do first, second, third, …….. to use the IT system? Has IT terminology been used that describes the hardware and software used in each of the above? Has IT terminology and concepts been used that goes beyond that included in the article? At least three extra items are needed.
EXPLAIN the relationship between the IT system and the social/ethical concern described in Criterion A. [4 marks] Your response must link the IT system with the concern (from Criterion A). How did the IT system cause the issue in Criterion A? Look at Strand 1. Your response here must relate to what you wrote in Criterion A. Trigger words to use: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
Additional questions to consider: What is the concern? How does it happen? Why does it happen? Which part of the IT system has a ‘weakness’ that allows the concern to happen? Why is the weakness there? Has the context of the article been included?
Criterion C: The impact of the social/ethical issue(s) on stakeholders. [8 marks] EVALUATE the impact of the social/ethical issues on the relevant stakeholder(s).
Avoid a lengthy introduction. Be concise.
Intro Start with a clear topic sentence about the first impact. Include the relevant stakeholders. What is their relationship to the IT system and the main concern?
Body
Stay away from solutions here.
Refer to the article with descriptions and explanation.
Depth > Bredth
Stakeholder Impact Structure: For Stakeholders One and Two, and include a third if possible, describe at least three impacts each (i.e. specific consequences arising from the use of the ICT system): Negative Impact 1: How does the impact negatively affect the stakeholder? Negative Impact 2: How does the impact negatively affect the stakeholder? Positive Impact 1: How does the impact positively affect the stakeholder? Balance positive impacts and negative impacts (include both). Avoid IDENTIFYING impacts, ANALYZE and EXPLAIN them. Stay away from structuring your response into advantages and disadvantages..
Analysis/evaluation of impacts – include these with the impacts, comparing and evaluating and linking them: Does a negative impact also have negative/positive impact on another stakeholder? Compare the impacts. Which impact is bigger/longer/… than another impact? Do some impacts have a common cause? Does one impact lead to another impact (positive or negative)?
How often have the following analytical/evaluative words been used? Furthermore, additionally, however, but, conversely, likewise, in addition, on the other hand, whereas, compared to, contrast with, implies, as a consequence
Conclusion: Here you should demonstrate evaluation with a SUMMATIVE paragraph. Overall is the impact good, bad and/or mixed for the various stakeholders? In what way? Refer back to the impacts to find:
Evidence for your conclusion
Evidence against your conclusion
How does the evidence show your conclusion is true?
Trigger words to use here: my opinion, overall, although, despite, on balance, on weighing up. Criterion D: A solution to a problem arising from the article. [8 marks]. EVALUATE one solution that addresses at least one problem identified in Criterion C.
Write one solution.
Make is feasible (realistic).
The solution can NOT be to stop using the IT system.
Clearly and fully EXPLAIN your solution and how it would work.
Ensure that you address your solution's strengths AND weaknesses.
A final summative paragraph that demonstrates evaluation is expected (the examiner will read this first). Judgements in this paragraph must be based on the strengths and weaknesses you raised in the body. FINAL PARAGRAPH MUST NOT BE A SUMMARY.
Use lots of appropriate ITGS terminology here. (the examiner will read Criterion D first).
Questions to consider: Intro: EXPLAIN your solution. What is the problem or problems? What is the impact of the problem(s)? What is your solution? (Offer only one, others will be ignored) Trigger words to use here: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
Body: ANALYSE your solution. Describe how your solution works?
technical solutions must use IT terminology and include hardware/software/input/output/processing;
policy, education or not-technical solutions must contain details of the policies and actions required
First positive evaluation: Directly apply the solution to the problem: How does the solution solve the problem/s? Further positive evaluation/s - at least one is required:
How else does the solution benefit a stakeholder or the situation in another way?
Negative evaluations – two different varieties and at least two are required:
Limitations of the solution:
How does the solution NOT completely solve the problem/s?
How else does the solution NOT benefit a stakeholder or the situation in another way?
Trigger words to use here: furthermore, additionally, however, but conversely, whereas, on the other hand.
Conclusion: EVALUATE your solution based on your analysis (body). Is the solution effective or not for solving the problem impacts? Yes, no, limited.
The Internal Assessment is due February 22, 2017 of senior year. Papers 1, 2, and 3 will take place between May 1 and the third week of May.
ANY evidence of academic misconduct at any time is very severe. Keep in mind that the IB monitors social media meticulously.
We will devote and document 30 hours of class time to the IA Project.This component is internally assessed by the ITGS teacher and is externally moderated by an IB examiner at the end of the course.
The IA involves the development of an original IT product for a specified client. Students must produce: • a cover page using prescribed format • an original IT product • documentation supporting the product (word limit 2,000 words). IA Tips Pick a project that you will LOVE. Solve a problem that is interesting to you.
The key to a good IA is understanding the process and the criteria. Today we will take a considerable amount of time to review the process and to look at examples of ITGS IA Projects.
Working with a client in the building will be much easier than working with a client outside of the building. This is your choice. You have to work with the client through the entire process. Ensure that the solution has meaning and is interesting to you and is meaningful to the client.
IA Structure
All documentation must be submitted in a commonly used format such as .pdf, .doc, or .html Copy zip files to FPS H:Drive. Backup work regularly to Google Drive. DO NOT CHANGE FILE NAMES OR FOLDER STRUCTURE. Click the link below and extract all files to your H: Internal assessment project ZIP file
There are no appendices.
Word counts and format The word count figures in the table below are guidelines. The word limit for the project is 2000; however, it may be possible to complete the project in 1500 words. If you write any extended prose in any of the sections where the word count does not apply, these words WILL be counted in the overall word count.
Criterion
Recommended Word Count
Comments / Format of presentation
A: Initial Investigation
A: Initial consultation with client
n/a
A written record of an interview either as a transcript or summary, a sound file, a video file, or an exchange of emails that may be supported by a questionnaire all of which provide evidence of the initial consultation with the client. Crit_A_Initial_consultation.rtf
Requirements specification form with justification of proposed solution appended as extended writing.
B: Justification of proposed solution
250-300
Crit_B_Analysis.rtf
C: Project schedule
n/a
Project schedule form. May be presented in table form. Crit_C_Project_schedule.rtf
D: Product design
n/a
Included scanned sketches, lists, concise statements, asset tables, and techniques for your test plan. Crit_D_Product_design.rtf
E: Product development
750-1000
Extended writing. Justification of techniques used including multiple annotated screenshots. Everything cited appropriately. Crit_E_Product_development.rtf
F: Product evaluation and future product development.
F: Feedback from client
n/a
A written record of an interview either as a transcript or summary, a sound file, a video file, or an exchange of emails that may be supported by a questionnaire all of which provide evidence of gathering feedback from the client after product development. Crit_F_Feedback_from_client
F: Product evaluation and future product development
Tips from veteran examiners: Most of the students score between 1-2. To score 3 in this criteria a student must explain clearly the inadequacies of the present situation and take references from the consultation done with the client.
Ensure that students develop appropriate interview questions that provide a basis for proper EXPLANATION of the inadequacies of the current situation.
Some times there are no evidence of consultation done with the client. Usually a client and a problem are identified, but instead of identifying inadequacies of the present system, the candidates only described the problem that needed to be solved. They often neglected to present solutions that have been attempted in the past and why they have been inadequate.
Many candidates failed to cite the interview, which limited their ability to score full marks.
Generally, the interviews did not have sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims made in Criterion A. More effort needs to be devoted to constructing the questions in the interview that provide a deeper insight into the situation. The interview questions must be specific to the client, investigate the current problem and why previous approaches to address the problem have not been successful, and what the requirements IT solution should address.
Candidates need to be reminded that clients under 18 years of age must have a co-client who is also consulted throughout the development from Criterion A through Criterion F. The ITGS teacher may not be a client (see Guide p59).
Ensure that you EXPLAIN the inadequacies of the present situation in full detail. Partial explanations of the present solution are often the reason for missed marks in this particular Criterion.
Criterion B Notes Criterion B is the analysis of the problem including a requirements specification and a justification for a proposed solution and is worth up to 5 marks.
Author the extended writing on the Analysis Form. Your extended writing should propose an IT solution that is appropriate for the problem that was identified in Criterion A.
Your analysis must consist of the following two parts, which must be submitted as a single document. 1-A completed requirements specification using the first section of the form. 2-Justification for the proposed solution, as extended writing using the second section of the form.
Requirements specification: The following information must be included: System interaction Input and output requirements Processing Security Specific performance criteria that are evaluated in criterion F to determine the effectiveness of the solution
Justification of proposed solution: In extended writing style justify the proposed solution You must write about how the IT solution to the problem is the most effective one The solution must be based on the requirements specifications
Other information that can be included in the justification for the proposed IT solution may refer to: whether the student has the IT skills and access to the software required to develop the IT solution whether the client’s hardware and software is compatible with the IT solution the level of training necessary for the client to use and maintain the proposed IT solution to what extent the input and output requirements of the client are met by the IT solution whether the data required for the IT solution can be obtained by either the client or the student how any security implications for the development and operation of the IT solution can be resolved.
Please see the IB Worked Examples on the attached webpage (itgs - Criterion B - Project) for examples of Criterion B that were published by IB. Remember that no part of the examples should appear anywhere in your work. The examples are however good to use to get a visual idea of how you can go about designing and developing your response, etc.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion B:
Ensure that you have developed system requirements that are unique to the solution to be developed. Develop a DETAILED justification of why the IT solution was chosen. Specific performance criteria should be relevant to the product enabling effective evaluation of the product in Criterion F and testing in Criterion D.
Many students fail to justify the solution and also the requirement specifications which could be used in effectively evaluating the solution.
The specific performance criteria are often not clearly stated and cannot be tested. These specific performance criteria also related to criterion D (they are more specific here for testing purposes) and criterion F (same here). Criterion C Notes Criterion C is the project schedule and is worth up to 3 marks.
Review the requirements for and begin working on Criterion C. You should also provide your client a brief update on the status of your project, etc.
Criterion C should include Dates, Actions, AND Details.The project schedule form included in your documentation folder MUST be used.
The project schedule must be implemented for the proposed IT solution in criterion B. A plan based on the research into the proposed IT solution and the factors involved (stakeholders, software, hardware, network requirements, data, input and output, processes and policies) is developed that addresses the key events in planning, designing, developing, testing and implementing the product in the form of a timeline AND any other issues that may arise which may affect the development of the product.
Criterion C is worth up to 3 marks (of the 30 possible for the IA Project). Please review the level descriptors on the Criterion C markband on page 67 of the subject guide as you work on this.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion C: Many students fail to include all the criterion in the project schedule and some times fail to put various tasks under proper criterion.
Project schedules should be systematic with clear description of tasks for each of the stages. Students should ensure that entries are completed for all the criteria stages. Students should use the correct sequence of steps and ensure that the form is used. Time and duration should be allocated for each task objectively.
Ensure that you have used the required form and have developed a WORKABLE schedule that can easily be followed in product development.
Often they are generic and could be referring to any client or any similar product. Criterion D Notes Criterion D is the Project Design and is worth up to 4 marks.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion D:
This is mostly poorly organized. Students give more importance to overall structure and internal structure and fail to provide a clear list of resources used and the list of techniques.
Students should be reminded to use the specific performance criteria while testing in the test plan.
At times the test plan is not enough to test the solution developed and agreement of client misses signature or they provide incomplete list of resources and techniques.
Testing is at times superficial and does not thoroughly test the functionality/features of the product and if the content is complete/accurate and has been properly referenced as needed.
Criterion E Notes Criterion E is the development of the product and is worth up to 7 marks.
Remember that a "simple" product cannot be awarded more than 4 marks for criterion E. A complex product is defined as one that includes at least three appropriate advanced techniques.
Review the published Appropriateness and Complexity of the IT Product documentation before proceeding with developing your product.
Review the description from the ITGS Subject Guide referring to criterion E.
The information in the documentation linked to the development of the product must provide a detailed account, using extended writing, to justify the following.
The structure of the product and why it is appropriate. The techniques used (including screenshots) in the development of the product and reasons why they are appropriate to it.
Additional technical information, if appropriate, that will support the functionality of the product, such as web hosting or relevant security information.
Any reference material such as templates, program code, applets or other materials that have been used or modified MUST be acknowledged. Failure to do so will be considered a significant omission.
The product should be created using the information submitted in the requirements specification (criterion B), project schedule (criterion C) and the product design (criterion D).
Any reference materials such as templates, program code, applets or other materials that have been used or modified must be acknowledged. Failure to do so will be considered a significant omission.
Begin by creating a list of the techniques used in the product at the start of criterion.E.
Please critically read and review pages 64 and 69 of the ITGS Subject Guide for more information regarding Criterion E.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion E.
This is very crucial as most of the marks are scored here. The student should provide enough screenshots to demonstrate the techniques used and a should clearly justify why that techniques was used. In my personal experience I find this section not done properly because of less screenshots and failing to justify why a particular techniques was good enough to be used.
Screenshots should demonstrate how techniques are used. The techniques used must be justified and sources used cited appropriately. To attain Level 6-7 for this criteria, students are expected to show and acknowledge sources used.
‘JUSTIFY’ has now changed to ‘EXPLAIN’ which means that techniques must be identified, described and then reasons provided. References must be made from the text to the screenshots provided. Screenshots should to be labeled and circles/arrows or other marking used needed. It should be clear what the text is referring to.
Criterion F Notes Criterion F is the evaluation of the product and plan for future product development and is worth up to 4 marks.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion F:
At times, students fail to establish the link between the requirement specification and the evaluation done. Also mostly the recommendations are superficial and not futuristic.
The evaluation should be aligned with the specific performance criteria in criterion B. Students should use appropriate questions in the feedback. Appropriate recommendations should go beyond the improvements suggested by client and focus on the products' structural or design improvements.
Recommendations should indicate what features/changes the next version of the product should contain. Many students miss the opportunity to ask their client about recommendations in their feedback questions.
Criterion G Notes
Criterion G is the awarding of marks for meeting the aforementioned required elements and is worth up to 4 marks.
The content within the product is sufficient for an IT-literate third party to reliably evaluate its effectiveness and the product functions as required.
The prescribed cover page is used and functions as required.
Appropriate filenames and folder structures are used throughout the project.
A screencast is included with the product.
The screencast allows the candiate to talk the moderator through their product and give details regarding how it was created. This should be a proud moment and should reflect your style and your satisfaction with your product.
Make a logical plan/outline to follow for the screencast. Determine what the moderator needs to see? What do you want to make sure you show? Being concise and effective is better than long and drawn out explanations here, etc.
Find a quiet space to record your screencast. Rehearse the screencast with a practice run. Watch the practice run and take notes regarding how you can improve the screencast. Use pause to start and stop the commentary as necessary.
Create the screencast. You WILL make some mistakes. Do not worry about mistakes. Pause for a few seconds and repeat that segment again . You can identify the segment and then edit it out later.
Fancy editing is not required but is ok if you have a lot of pauses or mistakes that were captured.
Save the screencast in a format that can viewed using VLC software. VLC is an open source program that works across platforms.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion G: The students must pay attention in designing the cover page and test it to make sure that all the links are working fine. Also in case of Database/Spreadsheet applications there should be enough data to test the solution and to run various features.
Screenshots should be a maximum of 5 minutes and show that the product is fully functional and highlight the techniques that are included in criterion
Students should ensure that the audio in the screencast is functional. Apart from demonstrating how the product functions, screencasts should show evidence of which techniques were used in product development.
The screencast must be sent in a common format (i.e. mov, mp4 etc)
The product must be fully functional and address the problem/requirements stated in criterion A. It must contain sufficient data and features to be considered an appropriate solution. If a product has been made in a specific format (i.e. Adobe InDesign, the file must be submitted in the InDesign format and also as a common format (i.e. pdf)
For databases this is not possible.
Names of folders and file names in Forms.zip may not be changed.
All of the links on the cover page must work. Useful IA Resources ITGS Subject Guide pages 56-70
Guidance on the appropriateness of the information technology solution
IB Assessment Notes, tips, resources, and best practices can be found here for Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3, and the Internal Assessment Project.
Paper 1
ITGSopedia Paper 1 Assessment TipsPaper 1 requires considered and focused responses. It is recommended that students spend a short period of time planning before they start writing to make a rough draft or a diagram of what they want to communicate within their response to ensure they stay focused on the question. It should also help to ensure their is balance in their analyses.
How to prepare a Paper 1 Style Assessment
Tips for Paper 1 Style Assessments
Paper 2
The following notes can be used as a template for planning and writing the responses at a high level.Criteria A and B should be treated as one item as the questions are designed to explore who, what, where, when, how and why about the use of the IT system, the components of the IT system and its relationship to the concern raised in the article.
Criterion A: The issue and stakeholder(s) [4 marks possible]
DESCRIBE one social / ethical concern related to the IT system. [2 marks]
Chose a CONCERN, not a positive issue.
What is the concern about?
Why it is a concern?
There may be several concerns, choose the strongest.
Are there lots of impacts for this concern?
What is the negative impact on one or more stakeholders?
Is there a potential solution to these impacts?
Has the context of the article been included?
Use ITGS key terminology.
Words to use: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
DESCRIBE the relationship of one primary stakeholder to the IT system. [2 marks]
Who is the primary stakeholder?
Give details of the concern or relationship.
What is their use of the IT system?
Which part of the IT system are they using?
Has the context of the article been included?
Use ITGS key terminology.
Words to use: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
Criterion B: The IT concepts and processes [6 marks possible]
DESCRIBE, step by step, how the IT system works. [2 marks]
Write in bullet points.
Don't miss any steps.
Go beyond the information presented in the article (input, output, processing, hardware, software, connection).
Be detailed.
Use correct ITGS terminology throughout your response.
Additional questions to consider:
What is the input to the system?
What is the output from the system?
What processing of data/information is happening?
What storage devices are used?
What security/data validation is used/needed?
What networks are used?
What communication systems are used?
What input and output devices are used?
Where does the data/information come from and flow to?
Where and when does all this happen?
Who is involved with each of the above?
Use the information above to describe the steps required to use the IT system: What does the user need to do first, second, third, …….. to use the IT system?
Has IT terminology been used that describes the hardware and software used in each of the above?
Has IT terminology and concepts been used that goes beyond that included in the article? At least three extra items are needed.
EXPLAIN the relationship between the IT system and the social/ethical concern described in Criterion A. [4 marks]
Your response must link the IT system with the concern (from Criterion A).
How did the IT system cause the issue in Criterion A?
Look at Strand 1.
Your response here must relate to what you wrote in Criterion A.
Trigger words to use: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
Additional questions to consider:
What is the concern?
How does it happen?
Why does it happen?
Which part of the IT system has a ‘weakness’ that allows the concern to happen?
Why is the weakness there?
Has the context of the article been included?
Criterion C: The impact of the social/ethical issue(s) on stakeholders. [8 marks]
EVALUATE the impact of the social/ethical issues on the relevant stakeholder(s).
Avoid a lengthy introduction. Be concise.
Intro
Start with a clear topic sentence about the first impact.
Include the relevant stakeholders.
What is their relationship to the IT system and the main concern?
Body
Stay away from solutions here.
Refer to the article with descriptions and explanation.
Depth > Bredth
Stakeholder Impact Structure:
For Stakeholders One and Two, and include a third if possible, describe at least three impacts each (i.e. specific consequences arising from the use of the ICT system):
Negative Impact 1: How does the impact negatively affect the stakeholder?
Negative Impact 2: How does the impact negatively affect the stakeholder?
Positive Impact 1: How does the impact positively affect the stakeholder?
Balance positive impacts and negative impacts (include both). Avoid IDENTIFYING impacts, ANALYZE and EXPLAIN them.
Stay away from structuring your response into advantages and disadvantages..
Analysis/evaluation of impacts – include these with the impacts, comparing and evaluating and linking them:
Does a negative impact also have negative/positive impact on another stakeholder?
Compare the impacts. Which impact is bigger/longer/… than another impact?
Do some impacts have a common cause?
Does one impact lead to another impact (positive or negative)?
How often have the following analytical/evaluative words been used?
Furthermore, additionally, however, but, conversely, likewise, in addition, on the other hand, whereas, compared to, contrast with, implies, as a consequence
Conclusion:
Here you should demonstrate evaluation with a SUMMATIVE paragraph.
Overall is the impact good, bad and/or mixed for the various stakeholders?
In what way? Refer back to the impacts to find:
- Evidence for your conclusion
- Evidence against your conclusion
How does the evidence show your conclusion is true?Trigger words to use here: my opinion, overall, although, despite, on balance, on weighing up.
Criterion D: A solution to a problem arising from the article. [8 marks].
EVALUATE one solution that addresses at least one problem identified in Criterion C.
Write one solution.
Make is feasible (realistic).
The solution can NOT be to stop using the IT system.
Clearly and fully EXPLAIN your solution and how it would work.
Ensure that you address your solution's strengths AND weaknesses.
A final summative paragraph that demonstrates evaluation is expected (the examiner will read this first). Judgements in this paragraph must be based on the strengths and weaknesses you raised in the body. FINAL PARAGRAPH MUST NOT BE A SUMMARY.
Use lots of appropriate ITGS terminology here. (the examiner will read Criterion D first).
Questions to consider:
Intro:
EXPLAIN your solution.
What is the problem or problems?
What is the impact of the problem(s)?
What is your solution? (Offer only one, others will be ignored)
Trigger words to use here: because, as a result of, due to, therefore, consequently, for example.
Body:
ANALYSE your solution.
Describe how your solution works?
- technical solutions must use IT terminology and include hardware/software/input/output/processing;
- policy, education or not-technical solutions must contain details of the policies and actions required
First positive evaluation: Directly apply the solution to the problem: How does the solution solve the problem/s?Further positive evaluation/s - at least one is required:
- How else does the solution benefit a stakeholder or the situation in another way?
Negative evaluations – two different varieties and at least two are required:- Limitations of the solution:
- How does the solution NOT completely solve the problem/s?
- How else does the solution NOT benefit a stakeholder or the situation in another way?
Trigger words to use here: furthermore, additionally, however, but conversely, whereas, on the other hand.Conclusion:
EVALUATE your solution based on your analysis (body).
Is the solution effective or not for solving the problem impacts? Yes, no, limited.
- Evidence for being effective
- Evidence for not being effective
How does the evidence show your conclusion is true?Trigger words to use here: my opinion, based on my analysis, overall, although, despite, on balance, on weighing up.
Additional Paper 2 Resources
ITGSopedia Paper 2 Assessment Tips
ITGS News Paper 2 Assessment Tips
Paper 3
Insert link to student created Wikis here.Internal Assessment Project
ITGS Internal Assessment Notes (IA)The Internal Assessment is due February 22, 2017 of senior year.
Papers 1, 2, and 3 will take place between May 1 and the third week of May.
ANY evidence of academic misconduct at any time is very severe. Keep in mind that the IB monitors social media meticulously.
We will devote and document 30 hours of class time to the IA Project.This component is internally assessed by the ITGS teacher and is externally moderated by an IB examiner at the end of the course.
The IA involves the development of an original IT product for a specified client. Students must produce:
• a cover page using prescribed format
• an original IT product
• documentation supporting the product (word limit 2,000 words).
IA Tips
Pick a project that you will LOVE. Solve a problem that is interesting to you.
The key to a good IA is understanding the process and the criteria. Today we will take a considerable amount of time to review the process and to look at examples of ITGS IA Projects.
Working with a client in the building will be much easier than working with a client outside of the building. This is your choice. You have to work with the client through the entire process. Ensure that the solution has meaning and is interesting to you and is meaningful to the client.
IA Structure
All documentation must be submitted in a commonly used format such as .pdf, .doc, or .html
Copy zip files to FPS H:Drive. Backup work regularly to Google Drive. DO NOT CHANGE FILE NAMES OR FOLDER STRUCTURE. Click the link below and extract all files to your H:
Internal assessment project ZIP file
There are no appendices.
Word counts and format
The word count figures in the table below are guidelines. The word limit for the project is 2000; however, it may be possible to complete the project in 1500 words. If you write any extended prose in any of the sections where the word count does not apply, these words WILL be counted in the overall word count.
Crit_A_Initial_consultation.rtf
Crit_A_Initial_investigation.rtf
Crit_C_Project_schedule.rtf
Crit_D_Product_design.rtf
Crit_E_Product_development.rtf
Crit_F_Feedback_from_client
Crit_F_Product_evaluation_and_future_product_development.rtf
Criterion A is the Initial Investigation and initial consultation with the client and is worth up to 3 marks.
Crierion A Draft Requirements and Marking Scheme
Tips from veteran examiners:
Most of the students score between 1-2. To score 3 in this criteria a student must explain clearly the inadequacies of the present situation and take references from the consultation done with the client.
Ensure that students develop appropriate interview questions that provide a basis for proper EXPLANATION of the inadequacies of the current situation.
Some times there are no evidence of consultation done with the client. Usually a client and a problem are identified, but instead of identifying inadequacies of the present system, the candidates only described the problem that needed to be solved. They often neglected to present solutions that have been attempted in the past and why they have been inadequate.
Many candidates failed to cite the interview, which limited their ability to score full marks.
Generally, the interviews did not have sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims made in Criterion A. More effort needs to be devoted to constructing the questions in the interview that provide a deeper insight into the situation. The interview questions must be specific to the client, investigate the current problem and why previous approaches to address the problem have not been successful, and what the requirements IT solution should address.
Candidates need to be reminded that clients under 18 years of age must have a co-client who is also consulted throughout the development from Criterion A through Criterion F. The ITGS teacher may not be a client (see Guide p59).
Ensure that you EXPLAIN the inadequacies of the present situation in full detail. Partial explanations of the present solution are often the reason for missed marks in this particular Criterion.
Criterion B Notes
Criterion B is the analysis of the problem including a requirements specification and a justification for a proposed solution and is worth up to 5 marks.
Criterion B Draft Requirements and Marking Scheme
Author the extended writing on the Analysis Form. Your extended writing should propose an IT solution that is appropriate for the problem that was identified in Criterion A.
Your analysis must consist of the following two parts, which must be submitted as a single document.
1-A completed requirements specification using the first section of the form.
2-Justification for the proposed solution, as extended writing using the second section of the form.
Requirements specification:
The following information must be included:
System interaction
Input and output requirements
Processing
Security
Specific performance criteria that are evaluated in criterion F to determine the effectiveness of the
solution
Justification of proposed solution:
In extended writing style justify the proposed solution
You must write about how the IT solution to the problem is the most effective one
The solution must be based on the requirements specifications
Other information that can be included in the justification for the proposed IT solution may refer to:
whether the student has the IT skills and access to the software required to develop the IT solution
whether the client’s hardware and software is compatible with the IT solution
the level of training necessary for the client to use and maintain the proposed IT solution
to what extent the input and output requirements of the client are met by the IT solution
whether the data required for the IT solution can be obtained by either the client or the student
how any security implications for the development and operation of the IT solution can be resolved.
Please see the IB Worked Examples on the attached webpage (itgs - Criterion B - Project) for examples of Criterion B that were published by IB. Remember that no part of the examples should appear anywhere in your work. The examples are however good to use to get a visual idea of how you can go about designing and developing your response, etc.
"ITGS Criterion B Project." Https://itgs.wikispaces.com/Criterion+B+-+Pro... N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2014.
"ITGS Subject Guide"
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion B:
Ensure that you have developed system requirements that are unique to the solution to be developed. Develop a DETAILED justification of why the IT solution was chosen. Specific performance criteria should be relevant to the product enabling effective evaluation of the product in Criterion F and testing in Criterion D.
Many students fail to justify the solution and also the requirement specifications which could be used in effectively evaluating the solution.
The specific performance criteria are often not clearly stated and cannot be tested. These specific performance criteria also related to criterion D (they are more specific here for testing purposes) and criterion F (same here).
Criterion C Notes
Criterion C is the project schedule and is worth up to 3 marks.
Criterion C Draft Requirements and Marking Scheme
Review the requirements for and begin working on Criterion C. You should also provide your client a brief update on the status of your project, etc.
Criterion C should include Dates, Actions, AND Details.The project schedule form included in your documentation folder MUST be used.
The project schedule must be implemented for the proposed IT solution in criterion B.
A plan based on the research into the proposed IT solution and the factors involved (stakeholders, software,
hardware, network requirements, data, input and output, processes and policies) is developed that addresses the key events in planning, designing, developing, testing and implementing the product in the form of a timeline AND any other issues that may arise which may affect the development of the product.
Criterion C is worth up to 3 marks (of the 30 possible for the IA Project). Please review the level descriptors on the Criterion C markband on page 67 of the subject guide as you work on this.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion C:
Many students fail to include all the criterion in the project schedule and some times fail to put various tasks under proper criterion.
Project schedules should be systematic with clear description of tasks for each of the stages. Students should ensure that entries are completed for all the criteria stages. Students should use the correct sequence of steps and ensure that the form is used. Time and duration should be allocated for each task objectively.
Ensure that you have used the required form and have developed a WORKABLE schedule that can easily be followed in product development.
Often they are generic and could be referring to any client or any similar product.
Criterion D Notes
Criterion D is the Project Design and is worth up to 4 marks.
Criterion D Draft Requirements and Marking Scheme.
Review page 68 of the ITGS Subject Guide
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion D:
This is mostly poorly organized. Students give more importance to overall structure and internal structure and fail to provide a clear list of resources used and the list of techniques.
Students should be reminded to use the specific performance criteria while testing in the test plan.
At times the test plan is not enough to test the solution developed and agreement of client misses signature or they provide incomplete list of resources and techniques.
Testing is at times superficial and does not thoroughly test the functionality/features of the product and if the content is complete/accurate and has been properly referenced as needed.
Criterion E Notes
Criterion E is the development of the product and is worth up to 7 marks.
Criterion E Draft Requirements and Marking Scheme
Remember that a "simple" product cannot be awarded more than 4 marks for criterion E. A complex product is defined as one that includes at least three appropriate advanced techniques.
Review the published Appropriateness and Complexity of the IT Product documentation before proceeding with developing your product.
Review the description from the ITGS Subject Guide referring to criterion E.
The information in the documentation linked to the development of the product must provide a detailed
account, using extended writing, to justify the following.
The structure of the product and why it is appropriate.
The techniques used (including screenshots) in the development of the product and reasons why they are appropriate to it.
Additional technical information, if appropriate, that will support the functionality of the product, such as web hosting or relevant security information.
Any reference material such as templates, program code, applets or other materials that have been used or modified MUST be acknowledged. Failure to do so will be considered a significant omission.
The product should be created using the information submitted in the requirements specification (criterion B),
project schedule (criterion C) and the product design (criterion D).
Any reference materials such as templates, program code, applets or other materials that have been used or
modified must be acknowledged. Failure to do so will be considered a significant omission.
Begin by creating a list of the techniques used in the product at the start of criterion.E.
Please critically read and review pages 64 and 69 of the ITGS Subject Guide for more information regarding Criterion E.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion E.
This is very crucial as most of the marks are scored here. The student should provide enough screenshots to demonstrate the techniques used and a should clearly justify why that techniques was used. In my personal experience I find this section not done properly because of less screenshots and failing to justify why a particular techniques was good enough to be used.
Screenshots should demonstrate how techniques are used. The techniques used must be justified and sources used cited appropriately. To attain Level 6-7 for this criteria, students are expected to show and acknowledge sources used.
‘JUSTIFY’ has now changed to ‘EXPLAIN’ which means that techniques must be identified, described and then reasons provided. References must be made from the text to the screenshots provided. Screenshots should to be labeled and circles/arrows or other marking used needed. It should be clear what the text is referring to.
Criterion F Notes
Criterion F is the evaluation of the product and plan for future product development and is worth up to 4 marks.
Criterion F requirements and marking scheme.
Criterion F marked examples.
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion F:
At times, students fail to establish the link between the requirement specification and the evaluation done. Also mostly the recommendations are superficial and not futuristic.
The evaluation should be aligned with the specific performance criteria in criterion B. Students should use appropriate questions in the feedback. Appropriate recommendations should go beyond the improvements suggested by client and focus on the products' structural or design improvements.
Recommendations should indicate what features/changes the next version of the product should contain. Many students miss the opportunity to ask their client about recommendations in their feedback questions.
Criterion G Notes
Criterion G is the awarding of marks for meeting the aforementioned required elements and is worth up to 4 marks.The screencast allows the candiate to talk the moderator through their product and give details regarding how it was created. This should be a proud moment and should reflect your style and your satisfaction with your product.
The why and how of screencasts? | Stefancis
Criterion G Draft Requirements and Marking Scheme
Tips from veteran examiners regarding Criterion G:
The students must pay attention in designing the cover page and test it to make sure that all the links are working fine. Also in case of Database/Spreadsheet applications there should be enough data to test the solution and to run various features.
Screenshots should be a maximum of 5 minutes and show that the product is fully functional and highlight the techniques that are included in criterion
Students should ensure that the audio in the screencast is functional. Apart from demonstrating how the product functions, screencasts should show evidence of which techniques were used in product development.
The screencast must be sent in a common format (i.e. mov, mp4 etc)
The product must be fully functional and address the problem/requirements stated in criterion A. It must contain sufficient data and features to be considered an appropriate solution. If a product has been made in a specific format (i.e. Adobe InDesign, the file must be submitted in the InDesign format and also as a common format (i.e. pdf)
For databases this is not possible.
Names of folders and file names in Forms.zip may not be changed.
All of the links on the cover page must work.
Useful IA Resources
ITGS Subject Guide pages 56-70
Guidance on the appropriateness of the information technology solution
ITGSopedia IA Wiki page
Split to screen: assessment in a digital age OCC video
http://occ.ibo.org/ibis/occ/spec/coord.cfm?subject=coord
iTunes U
Photography: The Rule of Thirds: Read the GIGO Stefanics Article and visit the suggested resources.
http://blogs.osc-ib.com/2011/03/ib-teacher-blogs/dp_itgs/gigo-the-rule-of-thirds/
Watch the “Rule of Thirds” Atomic Learning Video
http://www.atomiclearning.com/highed/freerules.shtml
Podcasting
http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
http://www.commoncraft.com/video/podcasting
Art of the Start: Guy Kawasaki (How to do a presentation with a presentation tool)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSlwuafyUUo
Screencasting Resources
Screencastomatic or Jing
Additional ITGS Assessment Resources
OSC IB Blogs Writing for Exams and Transitions
ITGSopedia ITGS Extended Essay Tips
ITGSopedia IA Tips
ITGS IA Notes
Transition Words (Useful for 8-12 mark responses)
Research - ITGS Project